BERKELEY, Calif. -- Southern Utah Women's Volleyball came up just short of their first win of the season on Sunday, losing to the Pacific Tigers in five sets after winning the first two. Despite the loss, the Thunderbirds showcased talent and grit that will leave fans hopeful for the future.

Southern Utah started the match off strong, winning the first two sets by scores of 25-22 and 25-21. The Thunderbirds went on 5-1 scoring runs to close out each set after reaching the 20-point threshold, proving they can close out sets strong. The Tigers came roaring back with an efficient offensive attack in sets three and four, winning 25-16 and 25-13. As a team, Pacific hit above .300 offensively through the two combined sets and swung momentum firmly back in their favor heading into the decisive fifth set.

Both teams were at their best in the final frame, with neither side able to build a comfortable lead early on. With the score tied at 9-9, Pacific scored four straight points, pushing Southern Utah to the brink at 13-9, but the Thunderbirds refused to go quietly. Kills by Maya Banks and Molly Mitchell, and a service ace by Audrey Atwood brought the score back to 13-12 before the Tigers scratched out the final two points of the match.

Thunderbird hitters found their offensive flow this game, successfully connecting on 52 kills after struggling through the first two matches. Sophomore Maya Banks led the offensive turnaround with 20 kills on 42 attempts. Southern Utah's front line defense also flexed their muscles, recording 14 total team blocks among six different players.

The offensive explosion for the Thunderbirds saw several players set new season highs for the team. Setter Celeste Uruena Jensen more than doubled the previous high of 12 assists with 25 for the match, while Maya Banks became the first Thunderbird to reach the 20-point mark on the season with 21.5 total points. Audrey Atwood and Molly Banks each scored in double digits with 11.5 and 10.5, respectively, and Natalie Moore continued her run of consistent two-way success with five kills and four total blocks.

Southern Utah will travel to Fresno, California, next week in pursuit of its first win of the season as it plays in the Fresno State Tournament on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

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